The architects in the competition proposed a transformation of Malostranské náměstí

Prague - Architects have developed 40 proposals for how the Lesser Town Square in Prague could be transformed in the future. The expert jury in an international architectural competition selected as the winning study the authors who unified the square's space, reduced the number of parking spots, and added seating areas as well as possible locations for a sculptural work and a fountain. The jury presented the competition designs to the public this evening. This was reported by the chairman of the jury, architect Miroslav Šik.
The city announced the competition, among other things, in response to the opposition of some people who are unhappy that the ancient square under Prague Castle, dominated by the Church of St. Nicholas, serves as a parking lot. A petition was created for this reason. According to Mayor Tomáš Hudeček (TOP 09), the appearance of the square could begin to change in 2016.
"The primary function of the square in the past was a quality public space, and not merely a transport hub and parking area, as it is now," said the jury chairman. According to him, the square is not freely accessible, lacks urban furniture, and the space is poorly divided by the road and tram line that crosses the square.
Ultimately, the jury selected as the winning design by architects Martin Hájek, Václav Hájek, and Petr Horský. "The jury appreciated that it respects the historical environment and unifies the entire space. The spatial solution for the square is complemented by quality furnishings and historicizing lamps along the tram line," commented Šik. The authors of the awarded studies received a financial reward. The proposals are displayed in the lower part of Lesser Town Square.